Carrie Underwood sang “America the Beautiful” a cappella after her backing track didn’t play. She stood silently in front of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris for more than a minute before saying to the audience,

As a Black woman, Kamala Harris had to work twice as hard and overcome many racist and sexual attacks on her qualifications to become America's vice president. Jonathan Capehart spotlights Harris' time in public service and reflects on how she paved the way for so many Americans like her.

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For President Joe Biden’s inauguration in 2021, Harris telegraphed bipartisanship in a purple coat and matching dress by Christopher John Rogers, a black designer born in Baton Rouge, based in New York City and famed for his vibrantly colorful clothes.

Country star Carrie Underwood performs a rendition of "America The Beautiful" at the 2025 presidential inauguration.

Carrie Underwood sings "America the Beautiful" as former President Joe Biden, left, and former Vice President Kamala Harris listen at the 60th presidential inauguration on Monday, Jan. 20, 2025, in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol in Washington. (Kenny Holston/The New York Times via AP, Pool)

The audience, including outgoing President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, sang along with country singer for her performance of “America the Beautiful” during Trump’s inauguration ceremony.

After a brief pause, Underwood sang acapella, asking the crowd to join. during President Trump's inauguration.